GOOGLE ANNOUNCED NEW WAY TO TEXT ON ANDROID PHONES

Google has announced it's going forward with a new way to text on an Android phone, swapping out the default Messenger app for a new texting app called Android Messages.

This would allow Android Messages to work more on par with the likes of WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and Apple's own Messages service (to an extent), which have quickly become the go-tos for mobile messaging due to a wider set of features,

 Several manufacturers, such as LG, Motorola, Sony and ZTE, have also said they'll embed the technology in their phones so it's preloaded on devices sold throughout the world. With the roll out announced today, more than 1 billion subscribers globally will be ready to access this new messaging technology, Amir Sarhangi, head of RCS at Google said.

"Last year, it was about getting alignment with different partners and working to get the technology pieces in place," Sarhangi said in an interview. "This year, it's about launching the service, so subscribers can start using the enhanced features."

The news is a big deal because it means Android phone users on these mobile carriers will see an automatic upgrade to their SMS messaging experience. It will give them the same kind of sophisticated functionality that's already offered on messaging apps, like Apple's iMessage, Facebook's Messenger or WhatsApp.
Sarhangi said there's nothing to announce yet, but he's optimistic. "We're working with everyone, including the folks in the US," he said.

Google also said it's launching an early access program for businesses so they can develop branding around the messages they send to customers. Millions of businesses already use SMS to communicate with customers. Banks use it to send fraud notices, doctor's offices remind patients of appointments and airlines even send links to boarding passes via text.
This is likely because, as noted by Android Police, these larger service providers have their own take on RCS messaging services that could be seen as stepping on Google's toes, or vice versa.

Additionally, concerns have arisen about how adding "smart" features to texting - especially on an platform like Android - could be seen as a possible security hazard, according to Recode.

It will take some time to see how Android Messages pans out for telecom companies and customers alike, though those running an Android phone from almost every major manufacturer - ranging from HTC to Motorola to LG to even Google's Pixel - will be capable of preloading the new app starting today.